In the later part of the Meiji era, some visionaries saw that the sandbank by the sea expanding in the Tama River estuary was suitable land to attract industries. They carried out full-scale reclamation of the area and maintenance of the canal. As a result, modern factories successively took root and formed the center of the Keihin industrial area, leading to the beginning of Kawasaki Port as the hub of sea transportation.
In June 1951, the Port Act made Kawasaki City an independent administrator of the port. In September of the same year, the port was designated as one of the particularly important ports (most important ports for the country's trade). This made the port to become one of the leading ports in Japan. Also, the public terminal was gradually developed and it acted as a distribution hub for items other than industrial goods.
In 1964, reclamation by the prefecture and the city also progressed, giving birth to an industrial complex centered around Ukishimacho and Chidoricho. The amount of cargo handled has also increased dramatically, making it a top-class port nationwide ever since.
Furthermore, in 1965, the city announced the Higashi Ogishima reclamation project to create an international trade port in order to respond to the new era. Construction started in 1972 and about 80% of the planned land has been completed with 13 berths catering to both internal and external trade.
The area now has more than 50 logistics companies with active economic activities. As a commercial port, it is also developing as a major logistics hub.
Economic activity in the port is widely known to play a part in the national economy, and has a great influence on local economies and civic life.
Based on this perspective, development of Kawasaki Port is not limited to just port business, but should also invite participation from all stakeholders closely related to the Kawasaki City economy so that coordinated effectors can be made.
Today, Kawasaki Port is transitioning from an industrial port to a comprehensive port. We will establish this association as an institution to promote communication and fellowship among members, and work towards the common goal of promoting Kawasaki Port. May 11, 1987. Founders: Saburo Ito, Mayor of Kawasaki City; Yataro Tezuka, President of Kawasaki Chamber of Commerce and Industry